

Copyright ]\'" 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. 



The Book of 
Annuals 



The Book of 
yinnuals 



A PICTORIAL GUIDE TO THE 
CHOICE AND CULTURE OF 
FIFTY OF THE MOST DEPEND- 
ABLE PLANTS THAT FLOWER 
THE FIRST YEAR FROM SEED 



By .^ 

Henry H: Saylor 

Author of 
Making a Rose Garden, etc. 



New York 
McBride, Nast & Company 

1913 



Copyright, 1913, by 
McBRinF, Nast & Co. 






Published; c -April, 1913 



Ct.A347184 



CONTENTS 

PAGE 

Introductiojt 13 

Sowing, Trakspi.axting and Culture 18 

African Daisy A rctotis (jrandis 29 

Ageratum Ayeratum conyzoides 31 

Aster, China CaUistephus horfensin 33 

Balsam Impatienn Bahamiiio 35 

Calliopsis Coreopsis tinctoria 37 

Candytuft Iberis Amara and umbeUata ... 39 

Castor Bean Ricinus communis 41 

Catchfly Silene Armeria and pendula .... 43 

Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum carinatum 45 

Clarkia Clarkia elegans 47 

Colioea Cobcea scandens 49 

Cockscomb Celosia cristata 51 

Cornflower Centaurea cyaniis 53 

Cosmos Cosmos bipinnatus 55 

Datura Datura cornucopia 57 

Everlasting Ilelichrysum bracteatum 59 

Gaillardia GaiUardia pulchella 61 

Globe Amarantli Gomphrena globosa 63 

Godetia Godetia amoena 6!i 

Gourds Cucurbita ovifera, etc 67 

Gypsophila Gypsophila eleyans 69 

Japanese Hop Tlumiilus Japonica 71 

Larkspur Delphinium Ajacis 73 

Love-in-a-mist JVigela Damascena 75 

Marigold Tagetes erecta 77 

Mignonette Reseda odorata 79 

Moonflower Ipomoea Bona-nox 81 

7 



Contents 



PAGE 

Morning-glory ........ Ipomoea purpurea 83 

Nasturtium Tropceolum ma jus and niiim.f ... 85 

Nicotiana Nicotiana affinls 87 

Pansy Viola tricolor ". 89 

Petunia Petunia hybridu 91 

Phlox Phlox Drummondii 93 

Pink, Chinese Dianthtts Chinennis. var. 

Hedewigi 95 

Poppy, Shirley Papaver Rhoeas 97 

Portulaca Portulaca grandiflora 99 

Salpiglossis Salpiglossis sinuata 101 

Scabiosa Scabiosa atropurpurea 103 

Scarlet Sage Salvia splendens 105 

Schizanthus Schizanthus pinnatus 107 

Snapdragon Antirrhinum ma jus 109 

Snow-on-the-mount Euphorbia marginata Ill 

Stock Matthiola incana, var. annua . . . 113 

Summer Cypress Kochia scoparia 115 

Sunflower Ilelianthus annuus 117 

Sweet Alyssum Algssum maritimuni 119 

Sweet Pea Lalhyrus odoratvs 121 

Sweet Sultan Centaurea moschata 123 

Verbena Verbena (various species) 125 

Zinnia Zinnia elegans 127 



THE ILLUSTRATIONS 

{.Arranged alphabetically by botanical names.) 

PAGE 

Ageratum conyzoides Vgeratum 30 

Alijssum maritimum Sweet Alyssum 118 

Antirrhinum ma jus Snapdragon 108 

Arctotis grandis African Daisy 28 

Callistephus hortensis Vster, China 32 

Celosia cristata Cockscomb 51 

C'entaurea cyanus Cornflower 5:3 

Centaurea moschata Sweet Sultan \-2-2 

Chrysanthemum carinattnn ...Chrysanthemum 44 

Clarkia elegans Clarkia 46 

Cobcea scandens Coboea 48 

Coreopsis tinctoria Calliopsis 36 

Cosmos bipinnatus Cosmos 54 

Cvcurbita ovifera Gourds 66 

Datura cornucopia Datura 56 

Delphinium Ajacis Larkspur 72 

Dianthus Chinensis, var. 

Hedewigi Pink, Chinese 94 

Euphorbia marginata Snow-on-the-mount 110 

Gaillardia pulcheUa Gaillardia 60 

Oodetia amcena Godetia 64 

Gomphrena globosa Globe Amaranth 62 

Gypsophila elegans Gypsophila 68 

Helianthus annuus Sunflower 116 

HeJichrysum bracteatum Everlasting 58 

Humulus Japonica Japanese Hop 70 

Iberis Amara and umbelhiln . . Candytuft 38 

Impatiens Balsamina Balsam 34 

9 



10 The Illustrotious 



PAGE 

1 pomoea Bona-nox Moonflower 80 

Ipomcea purpurea Morning-glory 82 

Kochia scoparia Summer Cyjiress 114 

Lathyrus odoratus Sweet Pea 120 

Matthiola incuna. var. an una. .Stock 113 

Nicotiana alata or affinix Xicotlana 83 

Nigela Damascena Love-in-a-mist 74 

Papaver Rhoeas Poppy, Shirley 96 

Petunia hi/brida Petunia 90 

Phlox Drummondli Phlox 9i 

Portulaca (jrandiflora Portulaca 98 

Reseda odorata Mignonette 78 

Riciniis communis Castor Bean 40 

Salpiglossis sinuata Salpiglossis 100 

Salvia splendens Scarlet Sage 104 

Srabiosa atropurpurea Scabiosa 102 

Schizanthus pinnatus Schizanthus 108 

Silene Armeria and pt'iidula . . . Catchfly 42 

Tagetes erecta Marigold 76 

Tropceohim majus ;uid minus. .Nasturtium 84 

Verbena (various species) Verbena 124 

Viola trirnlnr Pansy 88 

Zinnia cicgans Zinna 126 



The Book of 
Annuals 



INTRODUCTION 

THE field of garden literature surely has not 
suffered in recent years from any lack of new 
books. Volumes in plenty have made their 
appearance, laying bare the secrets of the bulb gar- 
den, the hardy border, the successful management of 
hotbeds — and few of them have fallen short of a very 
acceptable standard. Indeed, the time seems fast 
drawing near when we in this country shall overtake 
our astute English cousins in the degree of specializa- 
tion their gardening writings have attained. Some- 
times I feel that we are going too fast, that we are 
passing fourth readers around a class that would 
prefer a primer, for, after all, there are uncounted 
thousands among us who have yet to taste the real 
joys of gardening. 

Quite recently a friend asked whether I would 
help him with his choice of annual flowering plants 
for his proposed garden. He had before him a sheaf 
of the seedsmen's catalogues, from the bewildering 
pages of which he was attempting to make a list of 
seeds that he might order. The names, I found, 
meant little to him beyond the mere sounds. "Love- 
in-a-mist" had a definite appeal, but whether it was 
one of the old standbys or one of the difficult plants 
that the experienced gardeners have given up trying 



14 ■ T]ie Book of Annuals 

to grow, he had no means of knowing. Its color — 
white or pale blue flowers — was listed, also its height, 
but whether it was one of the timid plants that need 
careful guarding from more vigorous neighbors, or 
a weed-like ruffian, seeking but a chance to oust all 
else from the vicinity, was as a closed book — and the 
definitely successful and well rounded garden a far- 
off goal. 

"I suppose I should lie able to find all these things 
in the books," said my friend, "but somehow it 
seems rather hard to dig out. The gardening writers 
tell me how to treat hollyhocks for the rust and that 
bulbs should be planted upon a cushion of sand, but 
I haven't yet found one book that will give me a 
start by helping me to pick out a dozen or fifteen 
flowering plants that will grow in spite of my igno- 
rance of their needs, and give me a variety of at- 
tractive bloom throughout the summer months." 

All of which is my reason for presuming to add 
this humble little volume to the long list that can 
scarcely be denied a space on the amateur gardener's 
bookshelf. 

The arrangement, it is hoped, has been kept as sim- 
ple as the aim of the book : fifty plants that flower 
the first year from seed sown in the spring are pic- 
tured in the following pages. Opposite each is given 
in condensed form the desired data regarding color, 
height, character of growth, soil preference and gen- 
eral culture, from which a garden of annuals may be 
chosen and brought into bloom. The list has been 



Introduction 15 



made up with the idea of including the majority of 
the available plantvS, including a few vines. An 
asterisk marks about half of these as the most de- 
pendable plants that will give a satisfactory variety 
of form and color. 

In choosing a list for tlie available garden space, 
the most successful results will be secured by spend- 
ing some little time and study upon the planting ar- 
rangement on paper. It is so much easier to change 
locations and proportions on a sketch pad than to 
correct errors after the plants are once started upon 
their life work. Lay out the garden plot on paper 
first, representing each foot of length and breadth 
by a half-inch or other convenient unit. In a plot 
along a fence or wall, keep the higher plants at the 
rear and the low edging plants in front. Avoid 
straight lines in the clumps, allowing the various 
plantings to run in and partly around neighboring 
groups rather than as simple bands or blocks. Above 
all, have one or two generous groups of a particular 
plant rather than a lot of insignificant patches. With 
most annuals, it takes a fairly large planting to make 
a satisfactory showing, and it would be far better to 
cut down the list of plants to be grown than to at- 
tempt to grow more kinds of flowers than the available 
space warrants. 

There are four considerations that should be kept 
in mind while arranging the planting plan: color of 
flowers, height when in bloom, time of bloom, and 
preference as to sunlight or shade. The available 



16 The Book of Annuals 

garden space will probably be either wliolly in a 
sunny location or in a partly shaded one ; the wholly 
shaded plot offers difficulties that, with annuals, are 
perhaps too great to surmount. This narrows our gov- 
erning factors to three, then, and it will require con- 
siderable study and readjustment to work out a plan 
for the bed that wall pass all tests. 

The requirements as to height have already been 
touched upon. If the bed is to be viewed from both 
sides, the taller plants will, of course, be put in the 
center, graduating the others down to either edge. A 
mechanical and too regular effect as to height need 
not be feared, for it would be impossible to obtain, 
even if we were to strive for it. 

The colors and times of bloom are more difficult 
to arrange. All that we need to make sure of, how- 
ever, is that there will be a fair balance of bloom in 
the bed or throughout the garden during each month, 
and that unpleasant combinations of color do not oc- 
cur. The use of white flowers between reds and 
blues, or between reds and yellows, or between two 
shades of the same general color, may always be de- 
pended upon to preserve the peace when there is any 
question about harmony. There is likely to be more 
need of the white between colors near together in 
the spectrum than between colors that are nearly 
complementary. A clump of clear blue is made more 
beautiful by contrast with neighboring yellow than 
if the two were separated. If you have a vista be- 
tween the beds — along a straight walk, for example 



Introduction 17 



— the grouping of the blues at the far end, with the 
reds and yellows near the viewpoint, will give greater 
depth of perspective ; the opposite arrangement will 
make the end of the vista appear quite close at hand. 
It will be well to remember that the amount spent 
for seeds alone is a small part of the total of pre- 
liminary labor, soil enrichment and preparation, and 
tlie care of the garden throughout the summer. For 
this reason, do not hesitate to pay the few extra cents 
per packet that clean, healthy seeds must necessarily 
cost. While some gardeners prefer to enjoy the 
surprises that a packet of mixed colors will bring, 
those who have any definite ideals of color arrange- 
ment will pin their faith to the slightly more expen- 
sive seeds that will give bloom of a single known 
color. 



SOWING, TRANSPLANTING AND 
CULTURE 

HAVING decided what flowers are to be gro-WTi, 
there arises the great question of when to 
plant. In spite of the many attempts that 
are made every year to put the planting season on a 
definite schedule of dates, this will never be possible. 
There are too many variable factors to be taken into 
consideration — latitude, altitude, character of the sea- 
son, condition of the soil and so on. In the following 
pages planting dates have been given, usually, but 
it should be understood that these are intended only 
as a rough guide. The amateur will do well to con- 
sider that there are, in the big class of annuals, three 
distinct subdivisions — hardy annuals, half-hardy an- 
nuals and tender annuals. The first of these may be 
sown outdoors as soon as the ground becomes mellow 
and readily workable. This, roughly, is the first part 
of April, in the vicinity of New York — the latitude 
for which the dates in this book are given. North and 
south of this latitude the planting date varies approxi- 
mately a week with each hundred miles — earlier in the 
South, naturally. The half-hardy annuals are treated 
in one of two ways: started in a coldframe in April, 
to be transplanted into the open border in May, after 



Sowing, Transplanting a)id Culture 19 

all danger of frost is passed ; or they may be treated as 
the tender annuals and sown in the open only after 
danger of frost. The tender annuals are those which 
will perish at a touch of frost, so they must be sown 
only after that danger is past. 

Of course it is impossible to tell just when this 
date will be in any location. June first is certainly 
safe, in the vicinity of New York, but by that time 
the gardener has lost perhaps two or three weeks of 
valuable time. The risk of loss in most cases is small 
— the cost of a few packets of seed — so that it is usu- 
ally customary to sow the seed early in ]\Iay and 
accept the risk of its having to be planted again. 
j\[ay fifteenth is usually considered a perfectly safe 
date. This is about corn planting time, a period which 
the Government itself has worked out on a map show- 
ing the date over the whole country. The May first 
belt extends from the middle of the Jersey coast out 
through the lower part of Pennsylvania, the central 
part of Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, along the lower 
edge of Iowa and through the lower and central part 
of Nebraska. On April fifteenth corn may be 
planted through the lower part of Virginia, central 
Kentucky, central Missouri and central Kansas. The 
April first season extends over the central part of 
North Carolina, through Tennessee, diagonally 
through the lower edge of Missouri, the upper cor- 
ner of Oklahoma, into the lower left-hand corner of 
Kansas. March fifteenth is safe enough for southern 
North Carolina, the central part of South Carolina, 



20 The Book of Animals 

Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas and Okla- 
homa. On the other hand, May fifteenth is none too 
late for southern New Hampshire and Vermont, north- 
ern New York, the Great Lakes country, northern 
Wisconsin and Minnesota, and central North Da- 
kota. 

On account of this uncertainty as regards a safe 
date for planting the tender annuals outdoors, many 
of the annuals are started indoors in what are called 
"flats," to be transplanted into the open after danger 
of frost is past. It should be understood that in many 
cases little is gained in this way. The plants grow 
much more slowly indoors than they would outdoors 
in June, so that very frequently those who start the 
ordinary annuals in flats in April find that by plant- 
ing seeds of the same annuals in the open in late 
May the latter soon catch up to the former plants 
and usually prove more sturdy. However, it is a de- 
cided advantage to plant certain of the annuals in- 
doors, as they are slow in starting and the best of 
their bloom can be realized only by having the seed- 
lings well under way when they are set out in May. 
Such annuals are nicotiana, snapdragon, everlastings, 
cosmos (particularly the late-flowering kinds), salpi- 
glossis and moonflower. 

A hotbed is naturally the best of all places in which 
to start annuals such as those just named, and any 
others that may need an early start. The construc- 
tion of a hotbed has been explained in so many other 
books that it may well be omitted here. 



Sowing, TransplaiiUiig and Culture 21 

For the greater number of amateur gardeners, how- 
ever, the hotbed will perhaps seem to be too much 
bother, and they will prefer to start the seeds in flats 
indoors. Late February or March is the earliest date 
when this need be done, in the vicinity of New York. 
Around Chicago, April tirst is time enough. The 
early date is for the slow-starting annuals. ]\Iarch 
fifteenth or April first is really soon enough to start 
the majority of them. This will give fair-sized plants 
to set out by the middle of May. It will readily be 
seen that it does not pay to have the seedlings reach 
this stage before that time. Not only is nothing 
gained, but everything is liable to be lost unless the 
seedlings are transplanted from the flats into larger 
flats, pots or paper pots. 

The flats are usually made by sawing ordinary 
cracker boxes into sections three or four inches deep 
and covering one side with boards, through which 
half a dozen holes are bored for drainage. Do not 
make the mistake of having these flats too large. They 
are heavy and awkward to handle when filled with w^et 
soil. 

The soil for the flats may well be of the best for 
its purpose. Otherwise all our trouble and nursing 
will go for naught. Perhaps the easiest way to get 
this soil would be to patronize the nearest florist. A 
proper mixture can be made without great trouble, 
however, by taking equal parts of good garden soil, 
leaf mold, thoroughly rotted black manure, and sand. 
The garden soil is best if scraped from the bottom of 



22 TJie Book of Annuals 

thick sod. The leaf mold may be scraped from some 
hollow in the woods where leaves have collected for 
years. The manure must be old, black and so thor- 
oughly rotted that it is like fine black soil. Turn 
this mixture over and over on a platform or in a large 
box, with a spade, to make it uniform throughout. 
Then put into the bottom of the flats a ])ottom layer 
of cinders, gravel, coal ashes or even excelsior — any- 
thing that will secure drainage for the under part of 
the soil. On this put the prepared soil to the depth 
of two or three inches, sifting the top half-inch or 
inch on through a fine sieve — a piece of screen wire 
mesh stretched over the bottom of a box will serve 
nicely. See that the box is tapped to settle the soil 
and then make the top surface even. 

At this point it will be well to pour boiling water 
over the flats of soil. This will kill any insect or plant 
life that might trouble us later. On the next day the 
soil will probably be in good condition for planting. 
Smooth the top and mark out with the edge of a 
board the necessary tiny drills or trenches in which 
the seed is to go. These need not be over two inches 
apart but should run the whole length or width of 
the flat. If but one or two kinds of seed are used 
in the flat, it may be more convenient to broadcast it 
rather than sowing in drills, although it seems to 
be easier when transplanting to take the little seed- 
lings from a drill. 

It is a general principle that seeds sown indoors in 
flats should be covered by a depth of soil equal to 



Solving, Tfansplanting and Culture 23 

once or twice their diameter. Without attempting the 
microscopic task of measuring the diameter of the 
small seeds, it will be found satisfactory to put these 
on top of the soil, pressing them into it with a tlat 
board and then sifting a very little soil over them. 

Some seeds need soaking over night in warm water 
ni order to hasten germination. Some, like moon- 
flower, are extremely slow in germinating, unless the 
lieavy shell of the seed is nicked with a file. Some, 
like nicotiana, need even more elaborate preparation. 

After the seeds are sown, the flat should be given 
a thorough watering. The sprinkling of water over 
the top from a watering-pot would be fatal, washing 
the seeds out of their places and playing general havoc 
with the careful work that has been done. However, 
a covering of burlap or bagging over the flat will 
break the force of the stream and secure a fairly 
even saturation. By far the best way, however, is to 
stand the whole flat in the bottom of a wash-tub or 
other receptacle, so that it may soak up water from 
the bottom. Allow it to stand in the water until the 
top appears moist. Then allow it to go unwatered 
until the top seems fairly dry. Too frequent water- 
ing tends to keep the soil wet rather than in the moist 
condition that is best for germination of the seeds and 
early growth. 

Covering the flats with glass for a day or so in 
the sun will hasten the germination of the seeds if 
they have been started late. Otherwise it is just as 
well to let them come along as they will. 



24 The Book of Annuals 

One great difficulty in raising the seedlings in fiats 
is that they are liable to become spindling, the re- 
sult of forcing in a warm and not entirely congenial 
atmosphere. It would be well to keep the flats in a 
room that does not get too much artificial heat. Flats 
of very sturdy little seedlings have been raised behind 
a window in a cool attic, where they have gotten the 
benefit of the sun and none of the harm that comes 
from superheated rooms. The coldframe naturally is 
a better place still, and it is in such a place that 
seedlings will attain the sturdiest growth. 

If the seedlings show their second true leaves before 
the weather has become settled enough to transplant 
them to their permanent quarters, they should be 
taken out of the flats and put into pots, old berry- 
boxes or paper pots. In transplanting the seedlings, 
either to flats, pots or outdoors, lift a portion of a 
row with a trowel, taking the soil to the full depth 
of the box and then break off small pieces containing 
individual plants. AVith what is known as a ' " dibber" 
or "dibble" — a short length of broomstick pointed 
at one end — a hole is made in the new location. Tak- 
ing the little plant by the stem, it is lowered into this 
hole until all the roots and half its stem are under 
the surface. The dibble is then put in again an inch 
away from the hole and moved towards the plant so as 
to close up the opening in which it is held. 

After transplanting the seedlings, whetlier to an 
indoor location or outside, keep the plants from the 
sun for two or three days. 



Sowing, Transplanting and Culture 25 

It is said that annuals will grow in practically any 
soil. If this is true it is no reason why we should 
attempt to grow them that way. The results are sure 
to be disappointing. The border or bed in which 
the annuals are to grow should be spaded over to 
the depth of a foot — one full "spit" (the depth of 
a spade blade) and another short one below it. After 
the soil has been thoroughly broken up it should have 
mixed with it a quantity of old well-rotted manure. 
Fresh, "green" manure is far worse than useless; it 
is completely destructive to plant life. If the soil 
shows a tendency to stickiness, it is over-balanced on 
the clay side and needs, in addition to the manure, 
some sand. The best soil for annuals should be such 
that when a handful is taken from beneath the surface 
and squeezed, it will, when released, partly crumble 
apart. Clayey soil remains in a sticky ball; soil that 
is too sandy falls entirely apart too quickly. 

The seeds should be sown outdoors somewhat deeper 
than in flats— three to four diameters under the sur- 
face — and it is always well to sift over the soil, after 
the seed is planted, a light covering of sand or sandy 
soil, Avhich will help to prevent the ground from bak- 
ing and forming a crust. 

Watering is a simple enough procedure, yet it is 
probably one of the most common sources of trouble 
in the garden of annuals. A light sprinkling daily 
does more harm than good. The ground should be 
thoroughly soaked, say once a week. If water is con- 
veyed to it by means of a hose, take off the nozzle and 



26 The Book of Anmials 

leave the hose on the ground to flood the border or 
bed with as much as it will readily absorb. If this is 
done at night, give the surface of the soil a mulch in 
the morning by breaking up the top crust as finely 
as possible. This "dust" mulch should be created 
after every rain and after every watering. It is in 
this way only that the moisture that is put into the 
ground can be retained there for the use of the plants. 
As soon as the surface of the soil is allowed to form a 
crust the water is drawn out by evaporation through 
capillary attraction and lost to the garden. 

The necessity for weeding a garden has become 
so firmly implanted in the Anglo-Saxon mind that it 
seems hardly necessary to dwell upon it here. It is 
just as essential to keep weeds out of the flower gar- 
den as out of the vegetable garden, and the task is 
undoubtedly harder in the former case because of 
the more complicated grouping and the absence of 
rows. The only plan of action that will lead to the 
ideal garden is to keep the weeds out from the earliest 
stages of growth. If they are kept down at the first, 
when the annuals themselves are developing their 
strength, they will be far easier to keep down later 
when the flowers are better able to hold their own. 

There are few garden pests that will cause annoy- 
ance in the garden of annuals. First of all, there are 
the aphids, the most common of the great class of 
sucking insects. They are tiny green things that 
may be seen clustered around a soft stem, sucking the 
juice from it. If they seem to be very thick on the 



Sowing, T lansplantiug and Culture 27 

plants tliey may be put out of the figlit by a spraying 
of hot soapsuds — use lialf a cake of Ivory or common 
hiundry soaj) churned up until dissolved in eight 
gallons of hot water. 

Then there are various insects of the eating class — 
the beetles, etc. These are perhaps most easily dis- 
posed of by knocking them otf the plants into a can of 
kerosene. If they appear in such large numbers that 
tills method seems impractical, sprinkle powdered hel- 
lebore on the foliage in the early morning when the 
dew is on the plants, or after a shower. A powder 
gun will do this work much more elfectively than it 
can be done by merely shaking the powder over the 
plants, as with a gun it may be gotten on the under 
side of the leaves where the insects are most likely 
to be found. 



The Book of Annuals 29 



AFRICAN DAISY 
Arctotis grandis 

A plant that should be given plenty of room on 
account of its rather sprawling manner of growth. 
Stake, if grown near smaller plants. 

Sow seeds outdoors April fifteenth, or start them 
in flats indoors April first and transplant to the 
border in May. 



Color: white petals, lilac on the under side; center 

dull blue with yellow outside circle. 
Height: two and a half feet, branching. 
Period of Bloom : July through early frosts. 
Location : rich loam ; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 31 

*AGERATUM (FLOSS FLOWER) 
Agcratum conyzoides 

One of the best annuals for edging the beds. 

Sow seeds indoors about March fifteenth, trans- 
planting after IMay twenty-fifth ; or sow seeds out- 
doors after danger of frost. A sowing in September 
will give plants that may be potted and brought into 
bloom indoors. 



Color : blue or white, or varying to rose. 

Height : one foot, ratlier loose growth, except in some 

dwarf and compact forms. 
Period of Bloom : July 15 to frost. 
Location : any garden soil ; any exposure. 





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The Book of Annuals 33 



* ASTER, CHINA 

Callistephus hortensis 

One of the most popular and highly developed an- 
nuals. It is easily and safely transplanted, so that 
it is an excellent plant for a reserve bed from which 
to fill gaps. 

The orange rust, appearing on the under side of 
the leaves, occasionally attacks the plants ; spray with 
ammoniacal copper carbonate solution. (Make a thick 
paste of 3 oz. copper carbonate with water in a 
wooden vessel; add to this 5 pints strong ammonia — 
26° Baume — diluted with 3 or 4 parts water; stir 
and add water to make 50 gals.) If attacked by 
black beetles (about Aug. 1) knock these into a pan 
of kerosene. Dig wood ashes in to keep aphis from 
the root. Mulch in dry weather with grass clippings 
to protect the shallow roots. 

Seeds may be sown under glass by Feb. 15 and the 
plants set out by May 1. The plants will withstand 
some frost. 



Color : various. 

Height: two feet. 

Period of Bloom: August to October; late asters, 

September to October. 
Location : light rich soil ; sun. 



The Book of Anmials 35 



BALSAM 

Impatiens Balsamina 

A widely cultivated half succulent annual of erect, 
compactly branching nature. The flowers appear 
clustered along the stem in the leaf axils. 

Start seeds indoors April first or sow in the open 
when danger of frost is past. Transplanting and 
pinching-in induce stronger and more compact growth. 
Do not let the plants suffer for lack of moisture. 

The double balsams are called Camellia-flowered 
varieties. 



Color : white to dark red ; yellowish and spotted. 
Height : one to two and a half feet. 
Period of Bloom : July to frost. 
Location: rich sandy loam; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 37 



* CALLIOPSIS 
Coreopsis tinctoria 

Known also as tickseed — one of the most easily 
grown garden annuals. There are Tom Thumb va- 
rieties. The flowers are good for cutting, and cutting 
induces more bloom. 

Sow seed where the plants are to bloom, thinning 
seedlings to eight or ten inches apart. 



Color: yellow. 

Height: one to three feet. 

Period of Bloom : mid-June to September. 

Location: any garden soil; sun. 



Tlie Book of Annuals 39 

* CANDYTUFT 
Iheris Amara and umbcllata 

Next to sweet alyssum, perhaps the most widely 
used annual for edging. It is shown in the illustra- 
tion with eentaurea in the background. 

Sow seeds as early as possible in the spring, or in 
the fall. Thin to four inches apart. For continuous 
bloom sow every two weeks. 

/. Awara is the common white-flowered candytuft; 
the kinds with colored flowers are varieties of /. um- 
bellata. 



Color: white (/. Amara) ; purplish (7. timhellata). 

Height : six to eighteen inches. 

Period op Bloom: July to September. (Fall-sown 

seed, May to July.) 
Location : rich garden soil ; open sun. 



The Book of Annuals 41 



* CASTOR BEAN 
Ricinus communis 

A foliage plant of tropical appearance, too fre- 
quently seen as a central motif in a small circular 
bed, but which may be useful as a background for 
the border. 

Plant seeds indoors in pots for transplanting, or 
outdoors in May. 

The varieties are obtainable in various colors of 
fruits, stems and leaves. 



Color: of leaves, green, reddish, very dark and varie- 
gated. 
Height : three to fifteen feet. 
Location : Deep rich soil ; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 43 

CATCHFLY 

Silene Armeria and pcndula 

Known also as sweet-william, but not to be confused 
with the perennial to which that name is more fre- 
((uently applied. The Howers are borne in flat-topped 
panicles. 

Seeds may be sown in the autumn or successively 
from early spring. Start April first and sow fort- 
nightly until July. 



Color: White through pink to purple. 

Height: 8. Armeria, one to one and a half feet; 

S. pendula, trailing. 
Period op Bloom : July to October. 
Location : sandy loam : full sun. 



The Book of Annuals 45 

CHRYSANTHEMUM (SUMMER) 
Chrysanthemum carinatum 

The commonest of the few annual members of the 
splendid chrysanthemum family. There is also a 
strain known as C. Burridgeanum showing a ring of 
red on the rays, adding a fourth color to this re- 
markably brilliant, though to some tastes rather 
gaudy, flower. 

Start seeds indoors in April, or outdoors after dan- 
ger of frost is past. 



Color: white rays with a yellow ring at base and 

dark purple disc. 
Height : two feet, bushy. , 
Period of Bloom : midsummer to frost. 
Location : rich sandy loam ; sun. 



The Bool; of Annuals 47 



CLARKIA 

Clarkia elegans 

An easily grown annual that has been much im- 
proved in recent years. The showy, attractive flowers 
are good for cutting as well as for massing in the 
front part of the border. 

Start seeds indoors in February or March or out- 
doors April first. 



Color : purple or rose, also white varieties. 
Height : one to three feet. 
Period of Bloom : mid-June to September. 
Location: warm light soil; sun or partial shade. 



The Book of Annuals 49 



* COBCEA 
Cohoea scandens 

One of the most rapid of the annual climbers. 
Particularly valuable for its strong foliage growth 
and effective flowers in covering trellises, arbors, tree 
trunks and rough walls. 

Sow seeds indoors in March or by April first, put- 
ting them in edgewise and covering but lightly with 
soil. Or, sow outdoors in the same way, in May. 



Color: white and purple. 

Height : twenty-five to fifty feet on good support. 

Period of Bloom : July. 

Location: deep loam; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 51 



COCKSCOMB 

Celosia cristata 

A very stiff, formal little plant that was known in 
most of the old-time gardens. Its well-marked colors 
of foliage are sometimes useful as a foil to neighbor- 
ing bloom. 

Sow seeds indoors in early spring and set out plants 
in May. 

It is moisture-loving and may need forceful syring- 
ing with clear cold water, or dusting with flowers of 
sulphur to get rid of the red spider. 



(\jLOR: (of combs) red, purple, violet, crimson and 

yellow. 
Height: nine inches. 
Period of Bloom : June to October. 
Location : light rich soil ; sun or partial shade. 



The Book of Annuals 53 



CORNFLOWER 
Centaurea cyanus 

Known also as bachelor's button, bluet, ragged sail- 
or and sometimes as bluebottle. A deservedly popular 
annual, flourishing in practically any location where 
it receives the benefit of a little sun, and blooming 
continuously from July to frost, if flower heads are 
kept picked. It self-sows. 

Sow seed outdoors in May, where plants are desired, 
or start indoors April first for earlier bloom. 



Color: blue, purple or white. 

Height : one to two feet. 

Period of Bloom : July to frost. 

Location: any garden soil; sun or partial shade. 



The Book of Annuals 55 



COSMOS 
Cosmos bipinnatus 

One of the favorite tall annuals for late summer 
bloom. Its worst fault is its lateness of bloom — too 
frequently nipped in its youth by the early frosts. 
A dwarf form, four to five feet high, blooms in July. 

Sow seed indoors in April and transplant outdoors 
after danger of frost is past. Pinch back the leading 
shoots to induce more bushy growth. 



Color : white through pinks to red. 

Height : three to ten feet, needing support of wire 

mesh or strings. 
Period op Bloom : dwarf forms, July to frost ; tall 

forms, September to frost. 
Location : sandy soil, not too rich ; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 57 

DATURA (TRUMPET FLOWER) 
Datura cornucopia 

A fragrant-flowered annual of rather striking 
beauty. The flowers are large — eight inches long — 
and suggest their botanical variety name in their suc- 
cession of one trumpet-shaped form inside of another. 

Start seeds indoors April first, setting out plants 
May first. 



Color: white, yellow and purple. 
Height : two to three feet. 
Period op Bloom : July to September. 
Location : rich, moist soil ; warm sun. 



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The Book of Anmials 59 

EVERLASTING (STRAW FLOWER) 
Helichrysum bracteatum 

The curious dry vari-colored flowers that seem 
artificial by reason of their "everlasting" qualities. 
They are easily grown. It would be wise to estab- 
lish their location so as to prevent their varied and 
brilliant colors from clashing with more delicate 
bloom. 

Sow seed outdoors in April or before, thinning 
seedlings to twelve inches apart. 

Gather flowers at night to preserve their best form. 



Color: white, yellow, red, etc. 
Height: one and a half to three feet. 
Period op Bloom : July to frost. 
Location: Any garden soil; sun. 



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The Book of Annuals 61 

GAILLARDIA (BLANKET FLOWER) 

Oaillardia pulchella 

An exceedingly brilliant flower — too much so in 
the estimation of some — but if one is careful to select 
named varieties of the proper colors the results are 
very gratifying. 

Sow seeds outdoors where plants are to bloom and 
sow early in April or before, as the seed germinates 
slowly. 



Color: various, chiefly yellows, reds, garnets, etc. 
Height : one to two feet. 
Period op Bloom : late June to frost. 
Location: any good soil; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 63 



GLOBE AMARANTH 

Gomphrena glohosa 

Sometimes called bachelor's button. The globe- 
like flowers, about the size of clover heads, are of 
many colors and are remarkable for the showy bracts 
wliich hide the true flowers. They are "everlastings," 
and like most such are easily grown. 



Color : various. 

Height : twelve to eighteen inches. 

Period op Bloom : July. 

Location : any good garden soil ; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 65 

GODETIA 
Godetia amcena 

One of the old-time garden favorites, with flowers 
of great brilliance and a satiny luster that has given 
them the name "satin flower." 



Color : white, rose, light purple. 

Height: one foot. 

Period of Bloom : July to frost. 

Location : any garden soil that is not too moist ; sun. 



The Book of Atuiuals 67 



GOURDS 

Cucurhita ovifcra, etc. 

One of the most decorative of the annual vines, 
bearing picturesque fruits of a variety of form and 
size. There are sucli named varieties as Hercules' 
Club (illustrated), Egg-shaped, Dipper, Bottle- 
shaped, Dish-rag, Pear-shaped and so on. 

Sow where vines are desired, after danger of frost 
is past. 



Height : ten to fifteen feet, needing support. 
Location : any good garden soil ; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 69 



GYPSOPHILA (Annual) 
Gypsophila elegans 

Bearing a profusion of very small flowers that give 
a mist-like ensemble with the delicate foliage. The 
latter is useful for combining with other cut flowers. 

Sow seed outdoors every two weeks from April first 
to July, where plants are desired. 

Gypsophila paniculaia, Baby's Breath, is the per- 
ennial form. 



Color : white and rose. 
Height: one foot. 
Period op Bloom : June to frost. 
Location: open, rather dry; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 71 



JAPANESE HOP 
Humulus Japonica 

One of the most reliable annual climbers, being 
free from attack of insect pests and attaining a height 
of some twenty feet. The foliage is luxuriant and 
attractive, there being varieties with leaves varie- 
gated with white and gray splotches. 

Start seeds indoors in April, setting plants out in 
May. Or, sow seeds where the vines are desired, in 
May after danger of frost is past. 



Color : flowers inconspicuous. 
Height : fifteen to twenty-five feet. 
Location : any good garden soil ; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 73 



* LARKSPUR (Annual) 
Delphinium Ajacis 

The annual sister of one of the best-known peren- 
nials, and a plant that has a long season of bloom. 
Select one or two named single colors and mass them. 

The seed is slow in germinating and may well be 
sown in the fall. If this is not possible, sow out- 
doors early in April. 



Color: blue and violet to white. 
Height : eighteen inches to three feet. 
Period of Bloom : July to frost. 
Location : deep rich sandy loam ; full sun. 




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The Book of Annuals 15 



LOVE-IN-A-MIST 

Nigela Daynascena 

Known also under tlie names of "devil-in-a-bush" 
and ' ' fennel flower. ' ' The plant is easily grown. 

Sow seeds in the open any time after the middle 
of Marcli. Thin the seedlings to eight inches apart, 
but do not transplant. Plant for successive bloom, 
making a sowing every two weeks until July first. 



Color : white, blue, yellow. 
Height : one to two feet. 
Period of Bloom : late June to frost. 
Location : m\y good garden soil ; sun. 



The Book of Afinuals 77 



♦MARIGOLD (AFRICAN) 

Tagetes erecta 

The common marigold of old gardens, with its char- 
acteristic strong-scented foliage. Some of the dwarf 
varieties in burnt-custard colorings are most effective 
in the front of the border. 

Give plenty of room (eight inches to a plant), air 
and rich soil. 

Sow seeds outdoors in May after danger of frost 

is past. 



Color : yellow to deep orange. 

Height: two feet. 

Period of Bloom : late July through early frosts. 

Location : light rich soil ; full sun. 



The Book of Annuals 79 



* MIGNONETTE 
Reseda odorata 

One of the best-known and most fragrant of the 
)ld-time annual herbs. Unfortunately, in attempting 
to improve the size of the flower spikes the ()(k)r lias 
become stronger l)iit less delicate and pleasing. The 
old garden forms, however, are still obtainable. 

Sow seeds outdoors in April and again July first 
for a succession of bloom. 



Color : yellowish white. 

Height : six inches. 

Period op Bloom : July first to frost. 

Location : light, sandy soil. 



The Book of Annuals 81 



MOONPLOWER 

Ipomoea Bona-nox 

Especially valuable for covering arbors and for 
screening, and notable for their easy culture, quick 
growth and beautiful bloom. Give the vine plenty of 
water. The flowers are fragrant, and they are open 
and at their best at night, sometimes remaining open 
until noon. Excellent for evening cut flowers. 

Seeds may be sown outdoors but are better started 
indoors April first. Hasten germination of seeds by 
filing a notch in the hard shell or soaking for a couple 
of hours in warm water. Set out the vines in May. 



Color : white. 

Height : ten to twenty feet. 

Period of Bloom : August and September. 

Location : strong soil ; sun. 



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The Booh of Anmials 83 



* MORNING-GLORY 
Ipomoea purpurea 

One of the least exacting- and most versatile of all 
garden plants. Like its sister the moonflower, the 
morning-glory is a quick-growing vine of the greatest 
service in covering arbors or for screening. 

Nick the seeds with a file, and the vines should 
bloom in six weeks from sowing (outdoors in May, 
after danger of frost is past). 

Give plenty of water. 



Color : various. 

Height : four to ten feet. 

Period of Bloom : July to September. 

Location : strong soil ; sun. 



The Booh of Annuals 85 

* NASTURTIUM 
TropcBoluni ma jus and minus 

Majus is the climbing nasturtium, useful for cov- 
ering banks or walls, or in the window-box. Minus 
is the dwarf variety — the Tom Thumbs, etc. — that is 
so deservedly popular for edging the border, not only 
for its flowers but for the leaves, which are among 
the most beautiful of all plants. To some people the 
variegated-leaf forms will appeal. 

Sow seeds outdoors in May. If the plants bloom 
sparingly, pinch off leaves to induce flower growth. 



Color : shades of yellow and orange. 
Height: majus, climbing; minus, six inches. 
Period of Bloom: late June through early frosts. 
Location : warm, sunny, fairly moist soil. 



TJie Booh of A)niiials 87 

NICOTIANA 

Nicotian a alata (or a/finis) 

The tobacco plant, valued in the flower garden for 
its rapid growth, large foliage and fragrant night- 
opening flowers. In Middle States and South it 
maintains itself from year to year. 

The seed is too small to germinate readily in or- 
dinary soil : sprout it by spreading on a thin cloth 
over a pan of water that is kept continually warm. 
Then plant indoors in flats, setting out the plants 
in IMay. 

Fertilize with wood ashes. 



Color : white. 

Height : two to three and a half feet. 
Period of Bloom : July and August. 
Location: rich, loose, deep, well-drained soil; sun, 
protected from winds, or partial shade. 



The Book of Annuals 89 



* PANSY 
Viola tricolor 

One of the oldest of the garden flowers and one of 
the most popular. 

The plant loves a cool moist climate, which fact 
explains the dwindling of size and amount of bloom 
in our hot, dry summers. Keep foliage and ground 
sprinkled frequently for best results. 

Start seeds in coldframe in August for next spring's 
bloom; or purchase plants from the florist. 



Color : various. 
Height: six inches. 
Period of Bloom : all summer. 

Location: rich, clayey soil; morning sun, partial 
shade; sheltered. 



The Book of Annuals 91 



* PETUNIA 

Petunia JujbrifJa 

A plant of the easiest culture and of most profuse 
bloom. Its only faults are its tendency towards weed- 
iuess and the gai-ish colors of the common strains. 
Choose selected named varieties. Of the double- 
tlowered sorts, only a quarter of the bloom will be 
double flowers— usually borne on the plants that were 
the weaker seedlings. 

Sow seeds indoors Ai)ril first and set out the plants 
early in May. Or, sow outdoors in May. 



Color: white to light purple; and striped. 
Height : two feet. 
Period of Bloom : July to frost. 
Location : any garden soil ; open sun. 



The Book of Annuals 93 



* PHLOX (Annual) 
Phlox Drummondii 

A plant originating in Texas about 1835, which was 
at once heralded with enthusiasm in England, and 
which has become one of the most popular annuals 
here. 

Sow seed where plants are desired, and thin seed- 
lings to one foot apart. Give the plants food and 
moisture to prolong bloom through the summer. 



Color: various shades of pink and red, also white. 
Height: six to eighteen inches. 
Period of Bloom : late July through early frosts. 
Location : good, light garden soil ; sun or partial 
shade. 



The Book of Annuals 95 

*PINK (CHINESE) 
Dianthus Chinensis, var. Hedewigi 

Single and double flowers of many vivid colors and 
bizarre markings, but scentless. 

Sow seeds where plants are desired, or, better, 
start them indoors April first and transplant, six to 
eight inches apart, outdoors in May. 

The plant is a biennial and will bloom more pro- 
fusely and earlier the second year if given a dry 
sheltered spot. 



Color .- pinks, reds, etc. 

Height: ten to sixteen inches. 

Period op Bloom : late July through early frosts. 

Location : dry, sheltered ; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 97 



* POPPY (SHIRLEY) 
Papaver Rhceas 

The best strain, for America, of the famous corn 
poppy of Europe. An Englisli amateur gardener, 
Rev, W. Wilks, in 1880, developed the Shirley from 
a solitary flower showing a narrow edge of white. 
The flowers are always single and show the most won- 
derful silky texture in every imaginable combination 
of white, pink and red, with yellow anthers. 

Sow seed in fall if possible, also early in spring 
and monthly thereafter until July. The seedlings 
are transplanted only with some risk. Thin the 
seedlings to four or six inches apart. 



Color : pinks and reds. 
Height : two to three feet. 

Period of Bloom : fall-sown, June to August ; spring- 
sown, July to September. 
Location : any good garden soil ; sun. 



The Book of Aiiuuals 99 



PORTULACA 

Portulaca grandi flora 

Known also as rose moss, and related to the com- 
mon weed of sandy soils — purslane. Of tlie easiest 
culture in a hot, dry location. Good for edging and 
in dry parts of rock gardens. The display of color 
is brilliant on sunny days only. In some places the 
plant self-sows — the reason for its persistence in old 
gardens. 

Sow seeds in corn-planting time (May 15), where 
plants are desired, and thin to ten or twelve inches 
apart. 



Color : white to yellow, rose, red, purplish and 

striped. 
Height : six to ten inches. 
Period of Bloom : July to frost. 
Location : hot, dry soil ; full sun. 



The Book of Annuals 101 



SALPIGLOSSIS 

Salpiglossis sinuata 

"Painted tongue," remarkable for its large, long 
stemmed, funnel-shaped flowers of varied coloring. 

Sow seeds indoors about the middle of ]\Iarch and 
see that plants do not become stunted before trans- 
planting. Or, sow outdoors in May. 



Color : purples and blues through reds and yellows 
to cream, usually marbled and penciled. 

Height: eighteen inches. 

Period op Bloom : late June to frost. 

Location : deep, light, rich soil, not liable to sudden 
extremes of moisture or drought; sun. 



The Book of Annuals 103 

*SCABIOSA (MOURNING BRIDE) 

Scabiosa atropurpurea 

One of the best of the annuals, though apparently 
little known. The variety having black-purple 
flowers is one of the darkest and richest flowering 
plants. All the varieties have fairly long stems and 
keep well in water. 

Sow seeds indoors April first to transplant in May 
one foot apart; or sow outdoors in May after danger 
of frost is past. 



Color: white, pink, crimson, lavender, purple, violet 

and bi-colored. 
Height: eighteen to thirty inches. 
Period of Bloom : early July to frost. 
Location : any good garden soil ; sun. 



The Bool: of Annuals 105 



♦SCARLET SAGE 

Salvia splendens 

One of the most brilliant red-flowered bedding 
plants in cultivation. Its showiness and ease of cul- 
ture have caused it to be used without restraint. Al- 
though it does best in full sun, it is of greater value 
to the gardener in brightening half-shaded spots in 
the foreground of trees or shrubs. 

Sow seed of an early-blooming and compact strain 
in a frame or indoors early, so as to get good plants 
to set out in May. 



Color: scarlet. 

Height: two feet. 

Period of Bloom : July 15 to frost. 

Location : deep rich soil ; sun or partial shade. 






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The Book of Annuals 107 



SCHIZANTHUS 

Schizanthus pinnatus 

The "butterfly flower," an annual herb from Chile. 
There are several interesting sorts bearing flowers of 
various brilliant markings. 

Sow seeds outdoors where plants are to bloom, and 
thin to give each seedling a space one foot in diameter. 
Transplanting is done at some risk. 

Stake the plants, unless the location is well shel- 
tered from winds. 



Color : white, violet and lilac with yellow. 
Height : two feet, branching. 
Period of Bloom : July to frost. 
Location : any good soil, sheltered ; sun. 



T]ie Book of Annuals 109 



SNAPDRAGON 

Antirrhinum majus 

In reality a perennial, but seeds sown very early 
in the spring give flowers the first year. Then, too, 
the first crop of bloom is usually the only one wortli 
while. There are dwarf varieties for use as edgings, 
also double forms. 

For early bloom sow the seeds in frames in August 
or September, mulching the young plants for winter 
protection. Or, sow the seeds as early as possible in 
the spring, in a frame if possible. 

With winter protection the plant may be carried 
over, but the second year's bloom may be of another 
color. 



Color : ranging from red and purple to white. 
Height: one to three feet. 
Period of Bloom : August to frost. 
Location : light, rich soil ; full sun. 



The Book of Annuals 111 



SNOW-ON-THE-MOUNT 

Euphorbia marginata 

A particularly useful foliage plant for the gar- 
dener who realizes that the success of a garden does 
not depend entirely on the flowers. The leaves are 
margined with white, some of them being white all 
over. As a background for some strong red-flowering 
plant, euphorbia would be very effective. In the illus- 
tration it is shown as a foil for marigolds in a flower 
arrangement. 

Start seeds indoors, preferably, to secure a longer 
season, setting out plants in early ]\Tay. 



Color: (of foliage) light green margined with white. 
Height: two feet; erect and not spreading. 
Period of Bloom : flowers inconspicuous. 
Location : any good soil ; sun. 



Tlie Book of A)niuals 113 

* STOCK (TEN WEEKS) 
Matthiola incana, var. annua 

The name comes from the fact that the plant blooms 
in ten weeks from seed. Another name for it is 
■■gillyflower/' a corruption of July-flower. Most of 
tlie sorts are double clusters of small fragrant flowers 
at the top of an erect stiff stem. 

Sow seed through IMarch or early in April in a 
moderately warm hotbed, transplanting at the end of 
INIay, on a cloudy day, into the border. By successive 
sowings, one can have stocks in bloom throughout the 
summer. 



Color : white, through rose, crimson, purple and 

parti-colored. 
Height : one to two feet. 
Period of Bloom: Julj^ to frost (with successive 

sowing) . 
Location : rich, sandy loam ; sun. 



The Book of Anmuds 115 



SUMMER CYPRESS 
Kochia scoparia 

A little-known plant that may be used to great ad- 
vantage to take the place of small clipped evergreens 
in the annual garden. The growth is erect, stiff and 
pyramidal — excellent qualifications for the corners of 
formal beds or to flank the ends of a walk. The 
foliage is light green nntil September, when it turns 
a rich crimson. The plant dies two weeks after pro- 
ducing its countless number of minute flowers. In 
the illustration it is shown used as a border. 

Sow seeds indoors in April or in the open May 
first. 



Color : (foliage) light green turning to crimson. 
Height: two to two and a half feet. 
Period op Bloom : flowers inconspicuous. 
Location: clayey soil; sun. 



The Book of Anmials 117 



SUNFLOWER 
Helianthus annuus 

Too coarse for a location near the house, but ex- 
cellent at the back of a distant border in masses. 
Give plenty of room — a diameter of three feet to a 
plant — as the sunflower is a gross feeder. The 
plant is ideal for the chicken yard, furnishing a little 
shade and food that is relished. 

Sow seeds where they are to grow in April or May, 
or, better still, start them indoors in March, setting 
out the plants in May after danger of frost is past. 



Color : yellow. 
Height : three to twelve feet. 
Period of Bloom : August to frost. 
Location : any, but best is light, rich soil with mois- 
ture : full sun. 



The Book of Auuuals 119 



* SWEET ALYSSUM 
Alyssum maritimum 



Undoubtedly the most popular of all the edging 
plants, largely because of the long season of bloom 
and ease of culture. Its light green foliage and sweet- 
scented abundant bloom are practically indispensable 
in the annual garden. Avoid the straight line of 
plants in the edging— sowing a drift here and there 
that extends back between higher plants. 

Sow seeds early— April first— where the plants are 
desired. Pinch off the bloom and foliage stems from 
time to time to induce continued flowering. 



Color: white. 

Height: four to six inches. 
Period op Bloom : June through early frosts. 
Location : any good garden soil, best in sandy loam ; 
sun. 



The Book of Annuals 121 



* SWEET PEA 
Lathy r us odoratus 

The sweet pea should have, and is well worthy of, 
a generous portion of the garden to itself. 

Cultivate the soil deeply, above all things, and in- 
sure abundant moisture. Train the vines on brush, 
preferably, to prevent their burning, but wire mesh 
will serve and is more sightly and durable. 

Sow seeds in March (except white-seeded varieties, 
which should go in in April ) an inch apart in a trench 
eight inches deep, on fine soil, covering with an inch 
of soil and gradually filling in trench as seedlings ap- 
pear and increase in li eight. A very common mistake 
is sowing too thick. Expert growers thin seedlings to 
six inches apart. 

Constant cutting insures the maximum of bloom. 
Give plenty of water. 



Color : various. 
Height : five to six feet. 
Period of Bloom : July to September. 
Location : moderately rich and deeply worked soil ; 
open sun. 



The Book of Annuals 123 



* SWEET SULTAN 
Centaurea moschata 

A straight-growing annual that is valuable chiefly 
for the large, fragrant flower-heads. Being a centau- 
rea, it is closely allied to the cornflower {Centaurea 
cijanus), but the longer stems make it a better flower 
for cutting. 

In the illiLstration the large sharp-petalled heads 
are the sweet sultans; the others are the cyanus va- 
riety — ragged sailor, cornflower or bachelor's button, 
as it is called — which are less improved horticultur- 
ally. 

Start seed indoors early in April and set plants out 
in May. Or, sow seed outdoors in ]\Iay. It is better, 
however, to get an early start so as to enable the 
plant to perfect its flowers before very hot weather. 



Color : white, yellow or purple. 
Height: two feet. 

Period of Bloom : June, tlu^ough August. 
Location : any good garden soil ; sun. 



The Book of Amiuals 125 



VERBENA 
Verbena (various species) 

Another of the time-honored plants from our grand- 
mothers' gardens. One of its good properties lies 
in the fact that after blooming all summer it may be 
cut back, given a rest, then forced into bloom again 
as a house plant. The white-flowering varieties are 
said to be the more fragrant. 

Start seeds indoors in March in a flat or in a 
flower-pot on the window-sill. Or, plants may usu- 
ally be bought from the florist, to set out early in 
May. 



Color : white through lilac and rose to purplish blue ; 

also yellow. 
Height: two feet. 

Period op Bloom : early July through first frosts. 
Location: rich soil, better moist; sun or partial 

shade. 



m 




The Bool' of Auuuals 127 



* ZINNIA 
Zinnia elegans 

A rather stiff, formal plant, in bad repute with some 
gardeners because of its magenta varieties. Used in- 
telligently, from named varieties in good colors, it 
ranks with the best annuals, and even approaches the 
dahlia in perfection of form. 

Sow seeds about ]\Iay first and thin plants out to 
a foot or two apart, depending upon whether the 
dwarf or tall sorts are used. 



Color : white, yellow, orange, scarlet, rose, purple, 

etc. 
Height : six inches to two and a half feet. 
Period of Bloom : July to frost. 
Location : deep, rich soil ; sun. 



MAY 1 J9J3 



